Police probe Boda Boda 2010 over Shs500m

KAMPALA. Police have resumed investigations into the Shs500m that was allegedly misused by members of the infamous Boda Boda 2010 Association seven years ago.

The money in question was part of the Shs10 billion disbursed under the Presidential Initiative on market vendors and other small business operators through the Microfinance Support Centre then superintended by ministers Syda Bbumba and Ruth Nankabirwa.

Sources at Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) told Daily Monitor that CID director Grace Akullo ordered fresh investigations into 21 frustrated cases at the time when she was rendered powerless with the Boda Boda 2010 case top on the list.

An investigator, who was part of the team that was reportedly frustrated by then powerful Boda Boda 2010 patron Abdullah Kitatta, said 17 members of the group have been listed for investigation.He said 10 summons have been prepared for Boda Boda 2010 members, including Mr Kitatta, who is currently in military custody after he was arrested in January in a joint army and police operation.

“We came up with a list of 17 members of Boda-Boda 2010 but it is a bit challenging because we have since learnt that nine of the suspects in this fraud [case] are already facing numerous charges in military court and are in military detention. We are planning to serve them through their lawyers or relatives,” a senior detective said.

Contacted for a comment on the matter, CID spokesperson Vicent Ssekatte said he was aware of the probe but was yet to get a briefing on the fresh investigation. He said he would engage the investigating officers for an update. A senior investigator said the probe was also being stalled by the disappearance of Mr Jackson Sabila, a former finance manager of the Microfinance Support Centre, who signed off the money to various groups, including Boda Boda 2010.

“[Mr] Kitatta and his group did not record statements at the time because they threatened our investigators and tore the summons served to them. They told us to get their statements from senior police officers, who were above us. We backpedalled on the probe but we are very determined this time,” a senior detective said.